There’s something so satisfying about a meal that feels both fresh and comforting, especially when it’s ready to grab on hectic mornings. These healthy chicken quinoa meal prep bowls bring that balance with every bite—vibrant roasted vegetables, tender grilled chicken, and fluffy quinoa come together in a bowl that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
I still remember the first time I made these bowls. The kitchen smelled like a warm mix of paprika and garlic, while the oven quietly roasted bright red peppers and zucchini. When I finally sat down to taste it all, the burst of juicy cherry tomatoes mixed with the pop of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon made me pause—this wasn’t just food; it was food that lifted my whole afternoon. Each forkful held a little crunch, a little zest, and a lot of comfort. It felt like I was caring for myself without any fuss.
Why You’ll Love It:
– Ready in under an hour, perfect for prepping ahead of busy days
– Balanced nutrition with high protein and wholesome veggies
– Flavorful but simple seasoning that lets the fresh ingredients shine
– Versatile enough to enjoy warm or chilled
– Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making healthy eating effortless
If you’re worried about spending too much time in the kitchen, this recipe shows just how easy meal prep can be. Minimal cleanup, maximum taste, and the freedom to enjoy your lunch without scrambling each day.
PrintHealthy Chicken Quinoa Meal Prep Bowls
A balanced and nutritious healthy lunch meal prep featuring grilled chicken, quinoa, and roasted vegetables, perfect for a week’s worth of meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
2 medium chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
1 medium zucchini, chopped
1 cup broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
While the quinoa cooks, place the chopped red bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli florets on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and toss to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Meanwhile, prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry. In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
Divide the mixture evenly into 4 meal prep containers. Allow to cool before sealing and refrigerating.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
FAQ:
Can I swap the chicken for another protein? Absolutely. Tofu or chickpeas would work well for a vegetarian twist.
How long will these meal prep bowls last? Stored properly in airtight containers, they stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Is it okay to freeze these bowls? Freezing isn’t recommended since the texture of the roasted vegetables and chicken changes.
Can I add other vegetables? Definitely. Feel free to toss in your favorites like carrots or asparagus when roasting.
Ready to simplify your lunch routine while enjoying something wholesome and tasty? Try these healthy chicken quinoa meal prep bowls and see how easy it is to fuel your day with food that feels good.